Minister of Energy: The Iernut Thermal Power Plant could be synchronized with the National Energy System in the first quarter of 2027 and will enter commercial operation by the end of the first half of the year

Minister of Energy Dumitru Chisăliță assessed, on Saturday, the progress of the works at the Iernut Thermal Power Plant, one of Romgaz’s strategic investments. The official analyzed the project’s progress, the activities underway, and the measures necessary to complete the works efficiently and safely.

According to the minister, there are grounds for the power plant to enter commercial operation by the end of the first half of 2027. The tests prior to synchronization with the National Energy System are scheduled to begin in the coming period, while the connection of the power plant to the National Energy System (SEN) is estimated to take place no later than the first quarter of 2027.

During the visit, Chisăliță discussed with representatives of Romgaz’s management the company’s activity as general contractor, the contracts underway, and the progress made by General Electric at the construction site. Particular attention is being paid to the remaining works, equipment integration, testing, and commissioning stages.

The new power plant will have a capacity of 430 MW and will use natural gas in a combined-cycle system with gas turbines. The facility has a gross energy efficiency of 56.4%, higher than that of coal-fired power plants and older gas-fired units.

The power plant will also be equipped with a “Black Start” system, which allows it to start without power supplied from the external grid and can contribute to restoring the SEN in the event of major outages. The completion of the investment is expected to increase domestic energy production and system flexibility, while reducing dependence on imports.